Downs Mail Newspaper Issue 320

Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper

Maidstone East Edition

FREE FREE & Fortnightly

October 2017

No.Maidstone 246 & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper News

Panto ahoy!

June 2nd – June 16th 2022

THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maidstone, took to the River Medway to launch this year's panto.

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No. 107, 320 dies Kate, KATE Hart, a resident at an old people’s home in Bearsted, News has died aged 107, her son 3 David has disclosed.

Town’s mayor On board The Kentish Lady were national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy is installed Godmother), former EastEnder Ste-

Church’s future THE future of a Headcorn MP’s Local Plan bid

churchWhately remainsasked uncertain, HELEN the despite parish council government to halt the intervention. à6 borough’s housing scheme. 4

fan Booth (Prince Charming), ElizaDEREK Mortimer, pictured, the beth Bright Liberal (Cinderella), Craig long-serving Democrat Anderson was (Buttons) and,installed pictured, councillor, officially Stephen and Adam as the newRichards Maidstone Mayor at Bora zone (Ugly Sisters) . month. special ceremony last They were greeted by pupils from His deputy, independent memSouth ber CllrBorough Gordon Primary Newton,School will as-and members the media.

The Cllr panto sume the oftop job when runs fromsteps December For tickMortimer down in1-31.

2023. etsCouncil go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. l news, page 18

Park hut to go Plans for Dr Nigel VOLUNTEERS who carry out

THE of Park GP Drcould Nigellose Minnet workwidow in Mote a will hutwalk theythe useGrand to meet and 12 Canyon for charity. à8 store equipment

CCTV call a bid Homes siteinoods to stop fly-tipping OPPONENTS of a large housing development near Maidstone delivered a “told you so” message to developers after heavy rain caused flooding.

A river of muddy water cascaded has compromised still further what CALLS for the installation of CCTV cameras to prevent on a naturalfly-tipping drainage there was. off the Bellway Homes site at “So much for the rainfall tables Church Road, Otham, on May 24. country road have been made by the local boroughand councillor. the predictions and worst case Residents blame Bellway’s 421waste carriers, but beBurberry Lane, at near LeedsRoad and nearby, more than a year after it unlicensed planning the company reassured unit development Church lieves the costthey to small of disBroomfield, hasflowing been targeted by was dumped and set on fire. the inspector hadfirms in place. for the torrent into The The church car park has also seen posing of construction wastewhen at a waste dumpers for years, but in re“We worry even further Beams. cent problem has be- many instances of illegal dumping. transfer station a deterthe whole site isis proving concreted over Themonths, builder the blamed the weather But it is a problem in many rural rent come more acute. to the site. costing councils more. withthat littleisto no natural drainage." but sent engineers Construction rubble, Cllr madefeared her remarks as One Fort resident insurance The Bellway waste, proposal washard re- areas including Langley, Otham core, windows andby household of the borough’s closest companies would refuse to transcover jected three times membersfurat and Kingswood. Water Lane in one niture is leftBorough illegally –Council often strewn stations Farm, Tunhomes liableat to North frequent flooding.

Maidstone and Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have fer in the fierce middlelocal of the road. bridge Wells, announced it will be Duncan Edwards, of Maidstone faced opposition.

The also been targeted recently.

Last year, Maidstone Borough closed Cllr Gill Fort said: “Every month for 10 weeks.

Cycle Campaign Forum (MCCF), developers succeeded on appeal. we are having toilets, sinks and Council cleared 911 cases of fly-tip- long Shecampaigned added: “If you alongtothe for agoramp be David Hatcher of the pressure construction waste dumped in the ping and this year more than 163 line of increasing fines, they have to group Chapman Avenue Resi- issue, assuring the appeal inspec- included in Bellway’s plans so that village, specifically in Burberry have been recorded since April. be enforced. A reduction in the tor their systems were more than wheelchair users could access the dents' Association said: The approaching darker evenings charge or offering it free may have Lane, where we are(CARA) now thinking capable of coping. Well now we site more easily.

"This is not new.

We warned about of installing cameras on private will prompt a rise in illegal tipping. the desired similar effect.”

He said: “The water was rushing know theirwelcomed experts and planning the previous incidents of this at the Cllr Fort a joint initialand, to oversee the problem area.”

A three-monthly litter pick on the failedbytothe manage the situation. down the steps like a river. But this appeal, butevent the Bellway barrister Environment Agency mile-long A recent in Burberry Lane tive stretch of road through “Taking the surface off thatStansite is inevitable really. Putting big maand consultants thea and the Driver and Vehicle saw their a caravan burnedignored out while Leeds village produces an average chines a flat field without any torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32 blackover sacks of rubbish. drainage, this is bound to happen Cllr Fort, who also serves as a when heavy rain hits.” parish councillor, says teaching Bellway Homes said in a statechildren about social responsibility ment: is in aware of will the and the“Bellway issue of litter schools flashtake flooding occurring help the issue off theadjacent streets. to the development, was She believes with everywhich household caused by heavy rainfall.

Our enreceiving a weekly refuse collection YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT service, is no excuse for litter gineers there are looking into the matmaidstone@martinco.com being ter.” thrown from vehicles or 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumped in the road. l See pages 4& 5.

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Jason Donovan date Animal cruelty case

THE former Neighbours stardodged brings A MAIDSTONE man has his the Hazlitt jailshow aftertokilling a fallow 18 Theatre next May. his dog. deer and harming

à10

Library anniversary A LIBRARY centre in Maidstone marked its 10th anniversary with a series of events. à17

‘Gutter politics’ A TORY councillor has been accused of “gutter politics” over comments about a member’s salary. à18

32 Obituaries à31 Obituaries Parish Councils 34-35 à 33 Parishes ASH dieback has been discovered in

Monks Meadow in Detling; Comment village à Hollingbourne fete45-47 stallholder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has resigned; yellow lines falling are needed Bug numbers for Buffkyn Way, Otham, to allow NEW DATA hasImperial revealedPark; a rubbuses through worrying in insect bish bins drop in the sports field in numbers over thebelast Kingswood are to moved over to 17 picnic years. area and rear exit.à22 the

Crime Reports Expansion plan 35 AN APPLICATION to expand a VEHICLES have been driven over retirementin village in Leedscausing has farmland Lenham, damge to crops; an attempted been approved. break-in was reported in Detling; à25a vehicle was vandalised in Bearsted Council news Rd, Weavering; pumpkins were CATCH up on the Harriet-in stolen from an latest allotment sham Parish Council news in its Lenham. sponsored page.

Comment

à26 46-47

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landlord Popular raft race returns Pub hurt in attack to town’s river festival MAIDSTONE River Festival is back this summer and so is its ever-popular raft race.

The event returns to the River Medway on July 30 after a lay-off since 2019 due to the pandemic.

The rafters' contest (sponsored

by Clive Emson Auctioneers) will be raising funds for the Aylesfordbased Heart of Kent Hospice.

It runs from the high railway bridge over the Medway all the way upstream to the Archbishop's Place. The winners will receive a Raft Race trophy.

It will be one of the highlights of the day and the course will be lined with spectators and boats.

A spokesman said: "Some are there to cheer the teams as they battle against the current, but most – let’s be honest – are there to lob water balloons and flour bombs at the participants."

For those who want to take it at a more leisurely pace, or show off their creativity skills, trophies are

A POPULAR pub landlord remains in hospital after being attacked in his own bar.

Police were called to a disturbance at The George in Yalding at 7.50pm on Saturday, May 21.

In a message to customers, the pub said: "I would like to thank you all who sent messages of thought for Tony and us all. He is still in hospital, but please God will make a very lucky recovery."

A Kent Police spokesman said: "A man was arrested on suspicion of assault. A man was treated for a head injury before being taken to hospital. Inquiries are continuing."

also available for the “best dressed raft” and the team who raise the most sponsorship money for the Heart of Kent Hospice.

The last race was won by Maidstone Canoe Club (MCC) in 2019, but they are unable to make it this year.

River Festival chairman, Cllr David Naghi, said “In previous years, entries have come from businesses, sports clubs, groups of friends, young farmers, estate agents, councils, the Army and

even competitive families.

"Most rafts make it over the start line, not all of them reach the finish line, but everyone has a lovely time. This will be a very special event and all the more special because it’s been away for a while.

“But it’s good to be back. All we need is the weather to be kind.”

It costs £50 to enter a raft into the race.

For more information or to enter, please contact Steve Paine (07906 271325 or s.j.a.paine@gmail.com).

Child on rails

TRAIN services between Strood and Maidstone were halted after a child was seen on the rail line.

Services were forced to stop at around 7.50am on May 25.

A BTP spokesman said: "British Transport Police were called to the line near New Hythe railway station. The child was taken to a place of safety before being returned to his home address."

Services resumed by 9.20am.

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Residents ght to save trees RESIDENTS were appalled as work began to pull down lime trees to widen a road junction.

Kent County Council (KCC) has already started the project in Deringwood Drive so that HGVs can turn into the new Church Road development.

John Cottis, of Grampian Way, has lived in the estate since the it was first built in 1985.

Mr Cottis said: “These trees are well over 30 years old and living here feels like a green oasis.

“Me and my wife sit upstairs in the morning with a cup of tea watching the world go by and love to see all the woodpeckers and sparrows in the trees outside. It is a haven for wildlife.”

Mum-of-two Nicki Cooper, of Mallards Way, says she is disgusted that wildlife is being destroyed right on her doorstep.

She said: “My son asked me why workers were pulling down the trees. If a four-year old can understand it’s wrong, why can’t grownups?”

Confrontation

KENT Highways spokesman Sarah Parris faced angry protestors at the fiery meeting on May 24.

She pleaded with residents who voiced major concerns over the lack of consultation over the works.

During a heated exchange with one resident, Mrs Parris said: “With all respect, he is the tree expert, not you.

“You tell us where you want these trees. Speak to the parish council about locations and we will come out and assess it. On my way in here today I found so many verges where we can put more trees.”

John Everett, of Downswood Community Association, said: “We just planted the Jubilee tree, but now they are pulling down three?

“Years ago, KCC narrowed this road over safety concerns, now they want to widen it again. In icy conditions the trees protect the houses from getting hit by cars.”

A second protest took place on May 24 as no KCC representatives showed up to the first day.

Peter Smith, of Grampian Way, said: “Whilst almost 50 people waited in the pouring rain for KCC, two 40-tonne articulated lorries were seen negotiating this junction. There is undisputedly

Children join battle LOCAL children put up signs in a bid to save the trees.

Henry Cooper (4), Finley Cooper (6) and Emily Robey (8), who is pictured, designed posters and attached them to the lime trees.

Cllr Gordon Newton added: “I must thank everyone for coming to the examination and discussion. Moreover, I must thank the children who took the trouble to put up posters calling for the trees to be saved.”

plenty of room at this junction as it stands. Leave the trees alone.”

A KCC spokesman said: “These works are to mitigate the impact of the traffic the new development will generate through this junction.

“KCC was against the removal of these trees as part of this planning application, which was allowed following an appeal to the planning inspectorate.

“Since then, KCC has managed to negotiate a reduction in the number of trees that need to be removed by the developer. Two trees will be planted to replace each tree that is removed as part of this application.”

An MBC spokesman said: “As part of the planning permission allowed by the Planning Inspectorate, improvements are required to this junction, which unfortunately would require the removal of some trees.”

‘It’s a result’

AT the protest, members of Downswood Parish Council and Bellway Homes officials disappeared for a secret meeting.

Protestors were not allowed to hear the exchange and had to wait for Cllr Roz Cheesman to return with the information.

Cllr Gordon Newton said: “As a result of the protest, we have saved seven trees plus two in Church Road. The trees will instead be trimmed and monitored.

“Three smaller trees will still be pulled down, but considering the initial proposal to pull down every one, it’s a bit of a result.”

The award­winning Downs Mail newspaper is delivered fortnightly door­to­door in selected areas, and is available to pick up from major supermarkets and local stores in the Maidstone and Malling boroughs.

The papers are free to read online, as is the Daily Downs Mail news service.

Find them at www.downsmail.co.uk or scan the QR code below.

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News

Controversial homes to go on the market THE first units of a controversial 421 housing scheme in Otham are soon to go on the market.

The development, called Parsonage Place, is sited in 39 acres of former farmland around the ancient St Nicholas Church.

Bellway Homes has started to market its selection of houses, of which 126 will be “affordable”, although none has a price tag.

The buildings are yet to be finished and prospective buyers are invited to reserve them off the plans.

The first marketing event was held last month at the Bellway office suite at its nearby Bicknor Wood development in Gore Court Road.

The scheme went ahead, despite being rejected three times by elected members but against strong advice by Maidstone Borough Council officers.

The proposed development was allowed through by government inspector on appeal in January 2021.

The plans sparked a huge backlash from local residents and borough, county and parish councillors who said the roads would be unable to cope with the

level of housing. Even a 1,600signature petition was unable to sway the decision.

A Bellway spokesman said: “Bellway has played an important role in providing new homes across Maidstone in recent years.

"Parsonage Place enhances our commitment to the area, bringing high-quality new homes and the infrastructure to support them."

He said the 250-home Bicknor Wood scheme had already sold out and "demonstrated that there is strong demand for homes within Otham".

The spokesman added Parsonage Place was a £4m infrastructure investment for Maidstone.

The site will feature a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, and two, three and fourbedroom houses.

The affordable dwellings will be available to buyers through rent or shared ownership.

The developers will advance £2.8m to the borough council in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) as part of its planning agreement. MBC will be able to choose how to allocate this funding.

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News

Testimonial match for Bill

TICKETS for Bill Williams’ testimonial match are now on sale.

To mark 50 years since Bill joined Maidstone Utd, the club are hosting a testimonial match in his honour at Gallagher Stadium on Friday, July 8.

For one night only, the man himself will be back in the dugout alongside his former player and exEngland boss Peter Taylor.

The match will also see the return of Jay Saunders and Steve Watt, who will take charge of the other team.

Tickets are £15 for adults and £10 for under 16s. The price includes the option to book a main stand seat, subject to availability.

Wellness date

THE Kent Wellness Festival will take place at Kent Event Centre on June 11 and 12.

The two-day event is a celebration of fitness, nutrition, meditation, spirituality, yoga, mindfulness and self-improvement.

To book go to www.thekentwellnessfestival.com.

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Church’s future ‘in hands of solicitors’ THE FUTURE of Headcorn Methodist Church remains uncertain, despite the parish council taking out a public works loan.

In a parish poll last month, 98% of attendees voted yes to the question of whether the council should borrow £250,000 to help buy the disused building.

But the money does not give the village any certainty that they will succeed in buying the church.

Since February last year, the Heart of Headcorn community group (pictured) has been campaigning to transform it into a multi-purpose hub with a museum and community college.

The 153-year-old Victorian church, in the heart of Headcorn’s conservation area, was abandoned by the Methodists due to rising costs and a falling congregation.

Heart of Headcorn spokesman Bella Mansfield said: “At the poll,

people of all ages could be seen in a long queue around the edge of Parsonage Meadow.

“We were pleased to welcome our Methodist friends also. A surprisingly large number of people stayed to learn more, with some very intelligent and rigorous questions being asked.

“Negotiation must now take place involving solicitors, surveyors and the Methodist leadership.

“This is complicated by the fact

that another organisation is being encouraged to bid for the building; using the community asset listing that we struggled for a year to obtain – whilst paying thousands in legal fees.

“Despite the poll's confirmation of the Heart of Headcorn as a serious contender, everything is in the hands of the legal team now. In the meantime, don't forget to enjoy the Heart of Headcorn Singathon on YouTube.”

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Park volunteers ‘to lose hut’

A GROUP of volunteers who carry out work in Mote Park are angry at council plans to demolish the hut they use as a base.

The mobile building, next to the site of the new cafe and overlooking the lake, is to be pulled down in the "near future".

Brian Smith-Lowther (74), who is pictured at the hut, said the demolition would leave the volunteering group without a headquarters or a place to store equipment.

The team carries out a variety of tasks in the 44-acre green space in the centre of Maidstone, including litter-picking and maintenance.

The members are due to be given space inside the new park café complex, but Mr LowtherSmith, a former soldier of Sutton Road, says the demolition will have happened before the work on it has been finished.

He added: "What will we do in the meantime? Maidstone Borough Council has not consulted with us on this at all.

"There are about 20 volunteers

Gardener for churchyard

LEEDS Churchyard still needs a new gardener.

Gordon Luck (73), of Fernhill Road, retired four months ago due to back problems, after more than eight years tending the historic St Nicholas churchyard.

The yard boasts snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, primroses, and holly trees.

Churchwarden Brian Hardy said: “We are still looking for volunteers to help with the churchyard. Do not be worried about costs as these can be imbursed.”

If you would like to help contact Brian on 01622 842915 or email b.hardy17@outlook.com.

Burglary case

TWO suspected burglars have been arrested following a breakin in Maidstone.

Cash, phones and bank cards were stolen from a premises in Heath Road, Coxheath on April 15.

Following enquiries, a phone suspected to have been taken during the burglary was seized from a business in Maidstone, where it had allegedly been sold.

Two local men, aged 22 and 23, remain in custody on suspicion of burglary.

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who help give around 36 hours of skilled work per week. which equals one person's full wage.

"Despite what the council is now claiming, no one had the manners or decency to communicate with us. I am pretty miffed."

Mr Smith-Lowther is a committee member for the Mote Park Fellowship and has been volunteering in the park for the past 12 years.

Volunteers meet on Wednesdays to help with tasks such as

Help for Ukraine kids DOWNS Mail readers, who have been praised for their generosity in their donations to Ukraine, are now invited to put together shoeboxes of gifts for children in hospitals and sheltering underground.

There is still a need too for supplies (see below) for the next lorry departures from Barming on June 5 and June 26.

They are being organised by former Ukraine resident Leah Paul (43) and her husband from their home at 28, Redewood Road (telephone 07939 302646).

Early in the war, Leah made a traumatic 1,200-mile solo car journey through France, Belgium, Germany and Poland to her parents’ home in Lviv, Ukraine, to bring them back to Barming Now she is inviting all kinds of supplies from Maidstone to help Ukrainians survive. These include: Ready to eat food, pasta and rice; Chocolate bars, dried fruit, nuts; Washing powder/ detergent; New underwear; Men’s T-shirts, boots, socks; Power banks/batteries/torches; Duvets/blankets/sleeping bags; Washing kits, face masks and antiseptic wash; Nappies, wipes, sanitary towels; Camping cooking equipment; Towels (new ideally);

lopping the branches off fallen trees, spreading bark, or planting.

An MBC spokesman said: "MBC can confirm that hut currently used by the Mote Park Volunteer Group is due to be demolished in the near future.

"However, the building was only a temporary solution, which the group were made aware of.

"Council officers have been in contact with the group to inform them that MBC will be providing them with new facilities and storage space in the Mote Park café and visitor centre which is currently under construction.

"Also a second provision will be made available to the volunteers to store larger equipment and machinery at the MBC Estate Services building in the park."

Mr Smith-Lowther warned the park’s Green Flag status could be in jeopardy if the volunteer group is forced to disband.

Orchard safe

CONCERNED residents have been assured that recent bulldozer activity at a former orchard is not a move to develop the area.

Attempts to build on the land at Fant farm were thwarted by massive opposition from locals. But concerns were raised when a bulldozer was seen clearing old apple trees.

Labour borough councillor Paul Harper said there was no need for concern.

Road closure Raincoats/candles; Combat tourniquets; Anti-inflammatory medication; Rehydration salts and anti-emetics; Thermometers ; Nasal vasoconstrictor drops/spray and ear drops; Hemostatic drugs; Bandages and dressings; Calpol for children; Knee and elbow pads; Ballistic glasses; Tactical gloves and thin balaclavas; Walkie-talkies; Mobile solar panels(packs)/antennas/ collimator sights; Disposable plates/bowls; Grade 4 or above hard hats/bullet proof vests (must be licensed); Rechargeable batteries and chargers.

VICARAGE Lane in East Farleigh is due to re-open on June 4.

The road is closed in the general vicinity of Rathlyn. The alternative route is Wilsons Lane, Gallants Lane, Lower Road, The Green, Vicarage Lane and vice versa.

The closure is required for sewage connection works.

Water works

EAST Street in Hunton will shut from July 11 for water works.

The road will shut between the junctions with Redwall Lane and Hunton Hill and will reopen on August 31.

The alternative route is via Redwall Lane, A229 Linton Hill, B2163 Heath Road, Upper Hunton Hill, Hunton Hill and vice versa.

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Support for those in need

KENT County Council (KCC) has agreed to find a new contractor to streamline the delivery of financial vouchers and gift cards for its poorest residents.

A large shake-up of the council’s support system for low-income families and those in financial distress was agreed by KCC’s cabinet.

KCC’s deputy leader, Cllr Peter Oakford (Con), said: “Throughout the pandemic, the need for our support has been significantly higher and remains very high.”

KCC says it intends to commission a new provider to connect its services more closely together by June 22.

Crash injury

A WOMAN was rushed to hospital after a crash in Maidstone.

Police were called to Loose Road at around 1.45pm on May 26.

A police spokesman said: “This was a collision in Loose Road involving two cars, which was reported to us at 1.45pm.

“A female driver was taken to hospital.”

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Scarred dogs seized in animal cruelty case A MAIDSTONE man has been banned from keeping animals after killing a fallow deer and causing harm to his dog.

Mark Joseph Bond (38) of Mayfair Avenue, caused unnecessary suffering to his dog Vegas (pictured), and told magistrates that a group chat containing sick animal messages was “only banter”.

He was sentenced to 150 days in prison, suspended for 18 months.

The RSPCA launched an investigation after mobile phones seized as part of a separate enquiry into hare-coursing in Suffolk uncovered a group chat detailing crimes against wildlife, including videos of dogs attacking wildlife.

Five dogs were seized from the address in Maidstone, along with Bond’s phone.

Inspector Boyd added: “The only data that I found of relevance were WhatsApp messages that

their earth, to be then chased by lurchers. If the dog catches the fox, inevitably injuries are caused to both the dog and the fox.

“Whilst the suffering may be relatively short, it can be very intense.

If the injuries to the dog are not treated, the period of suffering will be prolonged.”

During his trial, Bond told magistrates the messages were not real.

The dogs, who were all taken into RSPCA care, will be rehomed.

Bond was ordered to pay £1,300 in costs with a £122 victim surcharge and was disqualified from keeping animals for 10 years. He will also have to complete 250 hours of unpaid work.

Sergeant Darren Walshaw said: “The UK is a nation of animal lovers and there is absolutely no place in a civilised society for the type of criminal acts committed by the likes of Mark Bond.”

support that Mark Bond uses his dogs to persecute wildlife.

“There were no videos or images, as ... these had been deleted from the phone.”

An independent vet said two of the seized dogs had “extensive” scarring.

In his report to the court, he said: “These injuries are typical of those sustained by dogs that engage with foxes or badgers both below and above ground.

“Terriers may be used underground to cause foxes to bolt from

P10

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Equity release - top tips from your local expert Newspaper and television advertising is encouraging Equity Release more than ever.

Local expert, Sarah Ferrell, is an advocate of Equity Release, however, as she says, “It is a transaction that will “last a lifetime” so careful consideration and good advice are needed”

Sarah gives us her top tips: 1) Get advice As this is a lifetime financial decision, finding the right combination of features to suit your circumstances (both now and later in life) is extremely important.

The role of the adviser is to make sure you understand the costs, key points and any restrictions that may affect you.

2) Carefully calculate how much you need and when you need it Any release comes with a cost and it is important not to release more than necessary. I recommend writing a “shopping list” to calculate how much is required and how soon the money is needed.

If, for example, some funds are needed for a project in 12-18 months’ time, I might recommend an initial release with a drawdown facility to reduce the interest longer term.

3) Consider alternatives I have seen Equity release do a huge amount of good, however it’s not right for everyone.

I encourage clients to consider other ways of raising the funds, to make sure this is the right route for them.

4) Involve a friend/family member If you have children/beneficiaries it is likely that, at some point, they will need to deal with the lifetime mortgage. I would recommend speaking with family and always welcome multi-generational meetings.

5) Consider making payments of interest One thing that has contributed to Equity Release having a “bad name” is the roll-up of interest. If you are able to pay, even a proportion of interest during your lifetime I would recommend this. It helps protect equity in your home – not just for those you leave behind but, more importantly, for your own benefit should you need financial options later in life.

Sarah is happy to visit your home, chat on the telephone or meet via video conference and offers flexible times to suit her clients.

With 28 years' experience in finance Sarah takes pride in providing personal, professional advice. She is happy to visit your home at a time to suit you - she is not just available 9-5.

For more information or to arrange a free consultation call Sarah on 01622 631372 or 07789 007 447 or e-mail her at sarah@ferrellfinancial.co.uk.

Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits.

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News

downsmail.co.uk

More help for young jobless FEWER than a quarter of apprentices employed by a local authority are aged under 25.

A total of 177 apprentices were employed by Kent County Council (KCC) from April 2021 to March 2022, with just 40 (22%) aged between 16 and 24.

KCC announced that major changes are needed to help young people achieve their goals after they leave school, with better opportunities in post-16 education, skills and training.

Opposition Kent county councillors raised concerns about the lack of employment opportunities for young people at a public meeting in County Hall, Maidstone.

Tonbridge county councillor Mark Hood (Green), who sits on KCC’s economic growth and communities committee, said: “We recognise there is a skills gap, which is holding the county back.”

KCC officers said they are seeking to increase the number of apprenticeships in the county.

So far, the vast majority of KCC apprenticeships have been taken up by those aged over 25 in the last financial year – a total of 137 people out of 177 (78%).

Maidstone county councillor Mike Sole (Lib Dem) said: “We could be more proactive in training young people.”

Following the meeting, KCC has unveiled an action plan to improve outcomes for 16+ job provision and raise young people’s aspirations through better careers, education and guidance.

One of the latest schemes is the government’s £2bn Kickstart programme, which provides sixmonth work placements for young unemployed people.Under this, only 22 placements have been secured across the county.

Support for abuse victims MAIDSTONE charity Child’s Vision has published the first of a trilogy of books detailing the lives of two children living with domestic abuse.

Child’s Vision provides a Domestic Abuse Recovering Together (DART) programme in schools.

Child’s Vision CEO, Rachael Hudson said: "We have written our first book as part of a trilogy which follows the lives of Molly and

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downsmail.co.uk

Library centre marks a successful 10 years THE Kent History and Library Centre (KHLC) in Maidstone celebrated its 10th birthday with a series of public events.

Staff dressed in medieval costumes provided tours of the archives and others assisted young visitors in a “charter-making workshop” and story-telling session.

Cllr Mike Hill oversaw the commissioning and construction of the building in James Whatman Way which brought together the Centre for Kentish Studies, East Kent Archives, the libraries at Springfield and in St Faith’s Street into one purpose-built new building.

He said: “I was delighted to be present at both the opening of the KHLC and its 10th anniversary.

“The library service across the county has evolved over the past decade and adapted to cater for the changing needs of the residents of Kent, and it has been really positive to see how KHLC has grown.

“The archives are a fantastic re-

KCC Cabinet Member Mike Hill, Mark Bateson and Sheila Malloch with visitors Eileen Johnson (right) and Matilda House (front) source for research and family history. These sit alongside library book-lending, free wi-fi, free access to computers for people who might not have their own equipment and “IT Buddy” sessions to help people get online as well as a range of events and activities.”

Among the many visitors on Saturday was Maidstone resident Eileen Johnson, who also went along on the day it first opened – 23 April, 2012.

She said: “I think the library is

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just wonderful. To have all the books in one location rather than in St Faiths Street and up the other end of town in Springfield I thought was such a brilliant idea.

No more long walks between the two. I love how light and open it is.

“At first, I was not sure about the children’s area being right in the middle, but having been in and seen such lovely activities, I really feel it’s perfect. The staff are lovely, too. Everyone is so kind and helpful.”

News

Three arrests after car chase

A STOLEN car failed to stop and crashed after a police chase.

Officers saw a silver Honda CRV in Marden Road, Staplehurst at 9.15am on Wednesday, May 25.

Suspecting it was stolen, police indicated for the driver to stop.

The car failed to stop and was driven dangerously while being pursued along rural roads.

It was eventually abandoned in Spelmonden Road, Horsmonden, following a collision with another car. The occupants ran off.

With help from a police helicopter, two men and a teenage boy were arrested.

PC Paul Otter said: "Drivers in Staplehurst, Horsmonden and Marden may have seen the silver Honda travelling at speed. We are urging motorists with dashcam and residents with private CCTV to check for footage that may assist our investigation."

Anyone with information should call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 25-0260.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the form on their website.

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News

downsmail.co.uk

Coalition bid for more seats A GROUP of councillors have formed a loose independent coalition to secure committee seats.

The 10 borough members, with one exception, do not belong to any mainstream parties.

But as an independent “group” they qualify for more committee places.

The group's leader is Chart Sutton's Cllr Steve Munford.

A splinter organisation of four, who fell out with the Liberal Democrats last year after losing control of Maidstone Borough Council, to the Tories are also in the tent.

Lenham housing opponents Tom and Janetta Sams, MBC's first Green Party member, Stuart Jeffery, Otham housing opponent Gordon Newton and former Maidstone Mayor, Cllr Fay Gooch (pictured), have all joined.

Salary comment ‘is truly gutter politics’ A TORY councillor was accused of "truly gutter politics" after drawing attention to the earnings of newly-elected Green Party borough member Stuart Jeffery.

North Downs ward's Conservative Cllr Patrik Garten used his email newsletter to highlight Cllr Jeffery's 2019 £140,000 salary as the chief operating officer of Medway NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

Cllr Garten was explaining why the extra cost associated with Maidstone Borough Council's new cabinet style of governance is good value.

He wrote: "Democracy does not come free but the taxpayers of Maidstone will get a good deal.

I’m not too sure that the NHS did, when they paid Mr Jeffrey £140,000 (including pension contributions) in 2019."

Cllr Jeffery said his CCG salary

Cllrs Garten and Jeffery was a matter of public record but comparisons could not be drawn between that and the basic allowances for borough councillors.

He added: “It is hard to respond to this – but it is truly gutter politics. A cheap attack.

“I had a long career in the NHS, starting as a nurse before moving into management. I am immensely proud of the work that I did as an NHS chief operating officer and I hope I will be able to bring the same level of diligence, focus and

effort to my role as a councillor.”

Cllr Jeffery had used his maiden speech to blast the leadership for awarding members an 8% pay hike when residents are struggling.

The member, who took Bridge ward from the Conservatives on May 5, said the award "felt obscene".

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) leader David Burton suggested councillors basic allowance should go up to £5,635 from £5,218. He also increased his own allowance by 9.4% to £22,540. l THE council was formally sworn in on May 21 with Derek Mortimer as the Maidstone Mayor and Cllr Gordon Newton as his deputy.

MBC also reverted to the cabinet system of governance, leaving aside the previous committee system.

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News

Kent’s men meet again

AFTER difficult COVID-19 years, the Maidstone branch of the Association of Men of Kent and Kentish Men has been revitalised.

A new committee has been formed with Tony Farnham chairman and Alan Coltham as his secretary. Meetings are being held monthly at the town hall in Maidstone.

Homes plan

A FULL planning application has been submitted for 39 bungalows for over 55s, a communal hub with a garden footpath to the cricket and hockey club on land at Maidstone Road, Marden.

New chippie

AN ESTATE agents at 1-3 Tonbridge Road, Barming, will become a fish and chip restaurant, if planning permission is granted by Maidstone Borough Council.

downsmail.co.uk

Data reveals worrying fall in insect numbers INSECT numbers have been on a steep decline in the county over the last 17 years, according to new data.

A study published by Kent Wildlife Trust (KWT) has found that insect numbers have declined by 72% in the county between 2004 and 2021.

Insects such as bees and butterflies pollinate food crops and are critical components of ecosystems. But, their numbers are on the wane.

Maidstone-based KWT’s findings were based on counting the number of insects squashed on vehicle number plates, such as cars and HGVs. Around 8,300 samples were carried out in 2004 and 2021, covering 43,000 miles. The results were published on May 5.

It was found that 72% of insect numbers have declined in Kent

between 2004 and 2021, which is higher than the UK’s national rate of 59% over the same period.

Environmentalists have long warned that the increased car pollution, agricultural pesticides, habitat loss and climate change are to blame Kent County Council’s (KCC) environment and transport committee has reviewed the worrying insect decline.

Cllr Sean Holden (Con), KCC’s environment committee, de-

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scribed the number reduction as “extremely concerning”.

He said: “It is also well and good to discover the problem, but the question is what to do about it.”

Other suggested actions include using fertiliser to reduce CO2 emissions and volunteering to help with local charities, such as Wildlife Trust or Buglife, to restore wildlife sites.

Meanwhile, KCC has launched a bee pollinator action plan to encourage local communities and Kent residents to conserve habitats and protect species.

KCC’s cabinet member for environment, Cllr Susan Carey (Con), described the revelations as “shocking” during last week’s debate.

She said: “The level the insects have dropped does seem startling and we do need to respond to it.”

News

downsmail.co.uk

Road closed for work on mains ONE of the busiest B roads in the borough is set for a series of closures as South East Water lays new piping and replaces old ones.

SEW says the £380,000 price tag will help to meet demand from the massive housebuilding programme.

The work in Leeds village, due to start on July 4, will add a 500m pipeline to support the existing water main.

Old, crumbling pipes and huge traffic volumes including illegal lorries, using the B2163 have caused numerous leaks and road closures in recent years.

A SEW spokesman said: “This investment will enable us to pump more water into the area, ensuring people in Leeds continue to receive top quality drinking water as demand increases.

“If we don’t do the work, the area’s water pressure will reduce, as demand would exceed the amount we can supply.

The work will take nine weeks to complete. SEW says most of the work will take place on private land, but it will affect Upper Street and Burberry Lane.

As a safety precaution for pedestrians, motorists and SEW’s workforce, these roads will be closed during the following dates: l Burberry Lane: July 13-33 l Upper Street: July 23-31.

Phase two will take place next year, when the network will be replaced following recurrent leaks.

Information about this work will be available nearer the time.

The spokesman added: “Road closures are always a last resort, but this is vital to ensure the safety of our team and the public.

“Our team will work as quickly and safely as they can to complete the project as soon as possible.

“I would like to thanks the local community in advance for their patience and understanding while we carry out this essential work.”

Church’s 800th birthday AN EXHIBITION takes place next month to celebrate the 800th birthday of St Peter and St Paul, the parish church in Headcorn.

The first recorded rector was in 1222 when Henry of Ospringe was installed.

From July 15-17 there will be displays, flowers, historical objects and old documents on display.

A model of Henry is pictured here with Fiona Haskett, the vicar, and Naomi Dickens, who made the costume.

Canon David Trustram said: "It’ll be a trip back in time to the earliest memories of Headcorn as a community. The local history society are playing a large part in the planning, and children from Headcorn Primary School will be contributing their artwork."

This year marks the official birthday, although there was a church on the site prior to that date, as it was mentioned in the Doomsday Monachorum over 100 years before.

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Retirement village to expand

News

A RETIREMENT village in Leeds is looking to expand, with plans for 39 additional homes.

Ledian Farm in Leeds, near Maidstone, has been redeveloped into a retirement village by Inspired Villages Approval for the village concept was first granted in 2012, but construction only started on the first homes in 2019.

Now Inspired Villages seeks to move onto phase three, the last stage, which will include another 39 homes ranging from one-bedroom apartments to three-bedroom cottages.

This will take the village size up from 116 homes to 155.

This phase would be on former grazing land to the immediate right of current development, backing onto a small number of residential properties.

There are mixed feelings about the proposal.

Some villagers are opposed citing extra traffic and over development as reasons, while others are broadly in favour.

Inspired villages have offered on-site spaces to existing households without off-street parking in the complex and who are directly affected by the scheme.

County councillor Gary Cooke said that while residents might mourn the loss of the field to look out on, the alternatives could be worse.

He said: "It's a case of being careful what you wish for."

The village is built around a clubhouse which includes a swimming pool, spa, gym, restaurant and shop, all open to the public.

In a planning statement Inspired Villages said: “The development will be operated by Inspired Villages, who already have a number of care retirement communities around the UK and a proven track record of delivery.

“The proposal is specifically de-

Burglary suspects

A GROUP of suspected burglars were seen walking up private driveways in Aylesford.

Police received reports that three suspects were acting suspiciously in Sycamore Drive, Orchard Avenue and Rowan Close on Friday, May 20.

In one incident, a Kia Niro was stolen after the keys were taken from inside the victim’s home. A wallet was also alleged to have been stolen, but was later found outside the premises.

Inspector Lizzie Jones said: “While we are investigating these incidents, I would remind residents to secure doors and windows overnight.

“We suspect these men were targeting cars by seeking to steal the keys from inside properties.

We have patrols in the area during the hours of darkness and I would urge members of the public to call us on 999 if you think a crime is being committed.”

Anyone with information which may assist the continuing investigation can call 01622 604100, quoting reference 20-0195.

You can also call the Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form on their website.

signed to meet the needs of older persons.

“Overall, the scheme provides a number of significant economic, social and environmental benefits, and in particular would provide much needed accommodation for the elderly in an area where there is an evidenced significant shortfall in this type of housing.”

On May 26, MBC approved the application with conditions.

River homes

WORK has started on the transformation of Len House in Maidstone.

Planning permission was granted two years ago for the former Peugeot dealership to be restored and converted into residential and commercial units.

There will be 159 apartments in the building, in the Art Deco style, and a two-storey extension will take it to five floors.

There could also be space for a restaurant by the River Len.

Friends need your help THE League of Friends at Maidstone Hospital urgently needs more volunteers.

The group started in 1949 at the hospital’s previous location in Marsham Street.

It is entirely volunteer-based and any funds raised go to providing equipment for patients and staff.

Chairman Gareth Owen said: “Our source of income is not entirely from retail outlets as we are very fortunate to, from time to time, receive legacies from deceased estates which sometimes, amount to many thousands of pounds.

“However, the main thrust is from the shop, the tea bar and the book shop at present; we are hopeful that the much-favoured ward trolleys will be reinstated.

They were withdrawn in March 2020 and are much missed by the patients.

“In the past two years we have donated nearly £250,000 to the hospital and, as we come out of the pandemic and things get back to normal, the opportunity exists to do even better for the hospital.”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please call 01622 224781 or email the chairman at gareth.owen6@nhs.net

M20 offence

A RECKLESS motorcyclist was caught driving at 60mph the wrong way down the M20.

The incident was witnessed on the coastbound carriageway between J7 and J8 at Maidstone by a driver travelling in the opposite direction.

Highways officers stopped the moped rider, who was heading towards London, and spoke to him.

Police did not attend.

Fair returns

THE Detling Antiques Fair is back on June 18 and 19.

The event will take place at the Kent Event Centre from 8.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday and 10am to 3.30pm on Sunday.

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News | Sponsored parish council

Harrietsham Parish News

CHAIRMAN: Eddie Powell CLERK: Amanda Broadhurst Tel: 01622 850089 harrietshampc@aol.com

Pick up your Downs Mail

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If you would like to become a pick-up point in Harrietsham, call Simon on 01622 734735.

Crossing calls as traffic rises THERE are calls from residents for a new crossing on the A20 due to increased traffic.

The issue was highlighted by Cllr Tom Sams who described the highway as "dangerous".

He told a meeting of full council on May 25 that residents on the south side of the road at the Lenham end of the village were facing problems crossing.

Cllr Sams added: "It's not just one location, it's several and we must get Kent Highways to see what they can do for us, be it a pelican or toucan crossing."

He said residents' concerns were "proportionate and well-argued".

The increasing volume of traffic is caused by the borough's housebuilding programme, even without the prospect of 5,000 houses at Lenham Heath.

It has been compounded in recent months by problems on the M20.

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ture what we will end up with is gridlock at Leeds Castle and at Ashford."

Cllr Chris Roots, highlighting the issue of suitable locations, said that he had to fight hard for the Church Lane crossing.

He added: "It had to be there because there was not enough room anywhere else."

The clerk advised that the matter should be included in the Highways Improvement Plan (HIP) and taken to the highways committee at a future date.

Diary dates

June 11: Village Hall Trust AGM, 10am at the village hall June 11: Ploughmans in the Church, 12-2pm June 12: Rotary Club’s annual North Downs Walk, starting 811am, at the village hall Each Friday: Coffee at the village hall, 10am-12pm.

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Sink hole talk

COUNCILLORS sought answers to the sink hole in West Street, which was shut for repairs.

One member remembered a void appearing outside the nearby Post Office some years ago.

Chairman Eddie Powell said after collapses in Barming, sinkholes were “more prevalent” in areas of high housebuilding.

Road repairs

CLLR Janetta Sams said pothole repairs in the village were not lasting and it was decided to contact county councillor Shellina Prendergast to highlight the problem.

Council posts

PARISH council chairman and vice chairman Eddie Powell and Glenda Dean have been re-elected unanimously to their posts for the coming year. The next parish council meeting is at 7.30pm on June 29 at St John the Baptist Church.

Twins plan

PARISH councillors agreed to explore the possibility of twinning with Kingston, Jamaica.

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News

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Pupils’ racism prank backres

TWO Maidstone Grammar School students who recorded conversation in which their head teacher used the “n” word have been spoken to by Kent Police.

The pupils had recorded and shared online a clip in which head Mark Tomkins used the derogatory term while confronting the boys about the issue.

MGS management defended Mr Tomkins after he was secretly recorded on an Apple watch admonishing a student for having used the word himself.

The minute-long clip was posted on Instagram and listened to by more than 1,000 people.

Mr Tomkins was cleared of any wrongdoing after a Kent Police investigation.

A spokesperson for the 473-yearold grammar school said any assertion Mr Tomkins was racist was "completely untrue" and called into question the pupils' motives.

Kent Police Inspector Steve Kent

Tithe battle

A FREE lecture about the “Kentish Tithe Warriors” will take place at Kent History and Library Centre on June 13.

A talk by Dr John Bulaitis will explain how Kentish farming communities fought the tithe, a payment to the Church dating back to medieval times.

This lecture focuses on two leading protagonists, one from each side of the conflict, both with surprising and colourful stories.

‘Fire’ false

REPORTS of a fire at the old Kent Police headquarters in Maidstone turned out to be a false alarm.

Dozens of staff, many with their jackets off, stood in the car park waiting for the incident to be dealt with on May 18.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "A fire alarm at Kent Police’s Force Control Room was activated. Checks were completed in liaison with Kent Fire and Rescue Service and it was established it was a false alarm."

Clog dancing

A FIDDLESTICKS Clog Dancers Jubilee Tour is coming to Maidstone.

The event will take place at the Detling Street Party in Pilgrims Way at 2pm on June 5.

said: "On May 10, Kent Police were notified of a social media post that included a recording of a conversation between a member of staff at a Maidstone school and a student.

"The matter was reviewed and, in this context, officers concluded the member of staff had not committed an offence.

"The student involved and another student who then shared it on social media, have received words of advice from a schools' officer concerning the need to gain a person’s permission before publishing a private conversation online."

A spokesman for the school said: “The headmaster quoted the word back at the boy and explained why it should not be used.

“The recording of what was intended as a private conversation

was subsequently shared by the boy and posted more widely by other parties.

“The matter has been discussed with Kent Police who have confirmed that the headmaster has committed no offence.

"However, it is an offence to make recorded conversations public or share them online without the participant’s consent and we understand the police will be taking action in that regard.”

Chairman of governors Mark Rolfe said: “Any suggestion that Mr Tomkins is racist is completely untrue and without foundation.

"He has the governors’ full support and I am disappointed to find that a group of students have tried to tarnish the school’s good reputation in this way.”

Kent Police sign goes from HQ

THE famous sign outside Kent Police headquarters in Sutton Road has been removed.

The site is about to be redeveloped for housing, marking an end to the 80-year stay in the complex.

Police claimed it was no long economical to remain there, although the training school will remain. Some civilian workers remain at the HQ site.

Deputy chief officer Ian Drysdale said: "The relocation project relating to the sale of the Sutton Road site is ongoing, with the chief officer team and other departments now based at the new Force Headquarters in Northfleet and at other existing sites across the county.

"It is important these changes continue to be made efficiently

and effectively, without compromising the first-rate service we provide.

"Our staff will be kept updated on the progress of the sale of the

Sutton Road site, which is subject to planning approval."

Plans to close the police headquarters were announced two years ago.

Council split over bus routes

A HEATED debated simmered over in Kent County Council's chamber over proposed cuts to bus routes.

KCC plans to axe 55 subsidised routes regarded as beneficial to local people, if not profit-making.

Transport boss Cllr David Brazier (Con) said: “I do not want to do this. It gives me no satisfaction whatsoever.”

Strong objections have been raised by Labour, Lib Dems and

Greens amid concerns over social isolation for residents in rural areas and harm to the environment, with the potential for more car journeys and CO2 emissions.

No final decision was made during a lengthy and emotionallycharged debate in County Hall, Maidstone, last month.

If approved, KCC Tories say the changes would lead to 48 bus contracts being withdrawn from summer 2022, with £2.2m in savings.

One of the bus services under threat includes the Kent Karrier service, which operates a “dial-aride” service in Maidstone and other towns in the county.

Four Kent MPs have written to KCC and three petitions have been sent to the council to argue against the proposal.

A more detailed report about the way forward is expected to be discussed by KCC’s environment and transport in July.

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Junction ‘is my rst priority’ THE new deputy Mayor of Maidstone says his first mission is to sort out a notoriously dangerous crossing for good.

Cllr Gordon Newton (pictured) fears it is only a matter of time until a child is killed at the junction of Willington Street and Deringwood Drive.

Pedestrians have to dodge two lanes of moving traffic and wait in a small middle island.

Cllr Newton said: “After the Downs Mail article about the damaged island last month, the barriers were miraculously fixed the very next day.

“But I am still not happy. We need a toucan crossing wide enough for pedestrians and cy-

clists to cross the road side by side.

“I want to see something similar to the crossing on Ashford Road. A young lad died there 15 years ago and a crossing was put in and there have been no deaths since.

Duncan Edwards, of Maidstone Cycle Campaign Forum (MCCF), said: “There are a number of factors affecting this junction such as construction traffic to the Church Road development, general congestion and the fact that it carries an important pedestrian and national cycle route between Bearsted/Downswood and Mote Park.

"We think it is reasonable to expect children, cyclists, disabled people and all pedestrians and users of this important crossing to be able to travel safely for school, employment or leisure.

"To do this we need a toucan

Cup win for young team K SPORTS under-10s have achieved a promotion and a cup win at the end of a successful football season.

The side won the Consolation Shield knock-out competition on May 1, beating Larkfield 2-0 and automatically going up to league C. crossing of sufficient width to accommodate all users to cross the whole road without being held in the central danger zone where they are at the mercy of the high volumes of cars and heavy lorries that use this route."

A KCC spokesman said: “Works are currently being

Manager Scott Willson said “I am so proud of the kids – they thoroughly deserve this win.

"They have been on a new style football journey since the start of the season, when we formed the team, and they have adapted well." planned to replace four damaged sections of the barrier at the existing traffic island.

“We are liaising with our contractor, who will be carrying out the work. To minimise congestion and avoid disruption, this will be done out of hours either at night or the weekend.”

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Jennie Page

AUSTRALIAN international all-round cricketer Andrew Symonds (46) was a fan favourite for Kent, playing for the county from 1999 and 2004.

Andrew, known to many as “Roy”, appeared in 49 rstclass matches for Kent, amassing 3,526 runs with a batting average of 45.20. He achieved 12 centuries and took 65 wickets for Kent as well as playing in 62 List A matches which resulted in 1690 runs at an average of 30.17 and his taking of 69 wickets at an average of 21.53.

A fulsome tribute on Kent County Cricket Club’s official site also chronicled the personal qualities that made Symonds such a success with the county.

It noted: “He achieved a world record for the quickest T20 century at Maidstone in 2004 against Middlesex, reaching his ton in only 34 balls and in 37 minutes, ending on 112 from 43. His batting average in T20s for Kent was a huge 35.77 in 10 appearances, and he took seven wickets at 33.28.

“In 2020, he was voted as Kent Spitres’ Greatest Overseas Player by the club’s members and supporters..”

The county quoted Kent Cricket’s Chair, Simon Philip, who stated: “Andrew Symonds contributed greatly to the club across all three formats and his rare talent left many extraordinary memories with those who saw him play. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Symonds could have played for England, where he was born, or the West Indies because of his ancestry, but opted to represent Australia, which he did over 11 years, including being a squad member in two successful World Cup campaigns.

He is one of only 22 cricketers to have achieved the ODI (one day international) “double” of scoring over 5,000 runs and taking over 100 wickets.

Andrew Symonds leaves his wife Laura, and two children.

JENNIE Page (67) moved to Harrietsham with her family in the mid 1960s and lived in Bearsted with her husband Trevor from 1982.

Born Jennifer Townsend in Hampshire, she nished her education at Swadelands School.

She began working in insurance before being employed by Barclays Bank.

She met Trevor in 1974 and the couple were married the following year. Jennie became mother to Robert, Alex and Christopher.

Trevor said: “Jennie began helping out at the Three Bears playgroup at the WI Hall in Bearsted, and that led to her becoming closely involved in village life.

“She became supervisor at the playgroup and volunteered at Thurnham Infants School before getting a permanent position at the school as a teaching assistant, which she held for many years.

“She was known to many children and families in the village and held in high regard in the area. Jennie was also a member of the WI and a local book club, but was otherwise a private person for whom her family always came rst.”

Jennie leaves her husband, sons, and grandchildren William, Ollie, Henry and Gracie.

John Emery LONG-standing resident of Harrietsham John Emery has died aged 102 in a care home near his son in Bristol.

John lived with his wife Elizabeth at Lakelands, Harrietsham. He is survived by his son Simon, daughter Sarah and two grandchildren.

Most of his career was in electricity supply management with Seeboard. He was an enthusiastic member of the Rotary Club of Maidstone from 1976.

John was a WWII Army veteran, serving in major campaigns in North Africa and

subsequently in the Allied invasion of Sicily.

He was born in South London and after schooling became a trainee draughtsman with London Electricity Company (later Seeboard). After war service, John returned in 1946 to work in the electric supply business and this eventually brought him to Maidstone as a qualied electrical engineer. He retired as district manager.

Obituaries

Andrew Symonds

Margaret McDonagh TRIBUTES have been paid to young mother Margaret McDonagh who died after her car left Yelsted Road whilst travelling to Sittingbourne on May 20.

Margaret’s son Patrick was also injured, but his injuries were not life threatening.

An outpouring of social media tributes following her death included descriptions of Margaret as a “beautiful angel.”

Bridget Ward said: “Rest in peace to this young mother who sadly passed away…you’ll never be forgotten you’ve touched the hearts of so many people far and near.”

Alecx Barbara added: “Four beautiful babies and a young man left behind… you really loved them so much.”

Marjorie Carrington MARJORIE Carrington (86) gave a lifetime of service in support of many organisations in her home village of East Farleigh and also Maidstone.

She and her family were among the rst residents of Priory Close. She died after a period of illness in Sutton Valence Care Home.

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Cllr Rodney Divall The chairman announced the death of Cllr Divall on March 8, after an illness. He was vice chairman from 2009 to 2019. He would be missed for his wisdom, knowledge, dedication, and good humour. A oneminute silence was observed.

Public forum A resident from Ash Tree View Farm said lorries were blocking the road when delivering to the development site. Cllr Mickleburgh would contact residents and report back at the next meeting.

Chairman’s report Cllr Parker said he had installed the new noticeboard at the MUGA. Tree planting Cllr Mickleburgh had had a meeting with the primary school and said the children would like to become involved in the parish council tree planting initiative. It was agreed that the clerk would investigate the supply of saplings to the school for the children to plant.

Dog mess The issue of dog mess on Stockett Lane was raised. It was confirmed that the additional bin from MBC had been ordered, but Chartway would not have the bin on the open space at Linden Meadows. It was agreed to buy a bin to be placed inside the MUGA. It was agreed to change the location of the bin ordered by MBC. Tree contract Cllr Parker reported that the planned works and additional works had been completed. The survey following the low-level clearance had not been received. It was agreed to follow the contractors’ advice and delay the planting of the five beech trees for the Queen’s Jubilee until the autumn as this would increase the likelihood of the trees thriving. It was agreed to accept the quotation from Bartletts for additional work as identified during their last visit.

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee A fete would be held from noon to 5pm on June 2 and and the parish council would organise lighting of the beacon on that day. On Sunday, June 5, the hurch would organise The Big Lunch to round off the celebration. It was agreed that the parish council would fly flags on some lamp posts.

East Farleigh Rubbish bins It was agreed that as there is a budget for maintenance of new bins that were granted by MBC, the parish council should chase installation of the bins not yet installed.

Defibrillator The required repair to the casing on the Gallants Lane defibrillator had been done.

Flood plan Only one flood alert was received during the winter so far. It was confirmed that Pearsons is contracted to keep gullies and drains clear.

Play area It was noted that the bench had been fixed. Weekly checks had

revealed no further hazards. Further quotes for playground equipment were awaited. It was agreed that the play area should be revamped, resurfaced and some new equipment added.

Highways Cllr Fullwood reported lobbying regards HGVs on Dean Street.

A working group meeting was scheduled to try to alleviate the situation. It was noted that following resurfacing of Lower Road, the scheme markings had been restored.

Speedwatch It was reported that Peter Beasley had relinquished his role as coordinator and a new co-ordinator was required to hold equipment, collect data and manage a team of volunteers. This would be advertised by the clerk.

Platinum Jubilee celebrations The Old School Samba Band had agreed to perform at the event from 1-5pm on Saturday, June 4.

Hunton Co-option Jean Fuller had expressed an interest in becoming a parish councillor and had observed the previous full council meeting. It was agreed that she should be co-opted as a parish councillor and she was welcomed.

Bonfires The clerk contacted Environmental Health about the bonfires on access land near The Chances, who suggested contacting Community Protection. Community Protection advised that it was a civil matter. The owner of the land could contact the police or, if the issue was specifically a smoke nuisance, a form should be completed on the MBC website and Community Protection would look into it.

Police matters PCSO Goodwin said a new PCSO had not been appointed for the area due to lack of numbers. PCSO Nicola Morris, the officer for Marden, Yalding and the surrounding area, would be a temporary point of contact.

PCSO Goodwin suggested that it would probably be best to contact the main department email address for CSU (Community Safety Unit) if there were any issues.

Playing field committee The committee chairman, Steve Jones, reported that the boundary on the north and west corner of the field was to be planted with a hedge along much of its length, with the addition of new trees under the Platinum Jubilee Queen’s Green Canopy scheme.

Play equipment Following the latest inspection report from MBC and the annual inspection by the Play Inspection Company in January, a programme of minor remedial works was agreed.

These included cleaning, minor repairs and repainting of the multiplay and swings; cleaning and minor repairs on the picnic tables; cleaning and minor repairs of the activity trail.

Car park The car park had a number of large holes in it and needed repair and

consolidation. The Playing Field Committee had agreed the work to fill and level these with road scalpings and this would be done by members of the committee.

Sports clubs The clerk had contacted Kent County Playing Fields Association for a proforma agreement the parish council could use to create its own agreement with the football and cricket clubs. The football club had been told they must send a representative to the Playing Field Committee and contribute more.

Highways Cllr Goddard said the signs had been installed on East Street, paid for by KCC Highways. One sign needed to be moved as it was obstructing the view; this would be rectified by KCC Highways Potholes were being reported online to KCC Highways; the water leaks on East Street had caused a big pothole.

Road mirrors Two residents of Bensted Close had requested mirrors at the junction with West Street as visibility was poor due the parked cars close to the junction at school times. Members agreed that landowner permission would be needed for this.

Tree assessment Cllr Summersgill said the visual tree assessment (VTA) was due to be carried out by Silva Arboriculture. A previous VTA recommendation was to cut down a tree in the north east corner of the recreation ground but the storm had taken it down.

Ponds Ponds were at much higher levels than a month ago and look to be in good order. Some of the ponds on Redwall Lane were showing signs of life. Cllr Summersgill had a list of 15 to 20 ponds that he reviewed.

Flooding Cllr Summersgill was working on the risk mapping for areas at risk of flooding. He had met with West Street residents to obtain the history of flooding in the back garden and try to establish the cause. Cllr Summersgill was looking at the culverts under Grove Lane – one is blocked. Cllr Heaton advised that the problem is that Grove Lane is an unadopted road.

Annual meeting The format and invitation list for the meeting on May 23 were agreed. The first half of the meeting would be an open session where residents can ask questions and raise issues; the second half would consist of presentations from local organisations. Cllr Fuller suggested that a suggestion box could be included.

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee lunch At the planning committee meeting in February, a request from the village club was agreed in principle for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Lunch to be held on June 5. The details were reviewed and it was agreed to fund any items pertaining to the public in general, but not those relating to the paid meal, which constitutes a private event. The amount of funding equates to about £1,000.

Parish Councils

Coxheath

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Tributes as education director stands down

Teddies for war children

KNITTED teddy bears have been handed out to Ukrainian children.

Officers from the district’s Community Safety Unit went to Tonbridge School on Tuesday, May 17, to speak to families who have fled the conflict in their home country.

Representatives from Kent Police and Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council told them about a range of support available.

Acting Chief Inspector Lizzie Jones, District Commander for Tonbridge, said: ‘“We wanted the refugees to know they are more than welcome here.

“The teddy bears were knitted for us by volunteers. We hope they were of some small comfort to the Ukrainian children we met.”

A KEY figure in the provision of education in the county has stepped down from his role, with warm tributes from colleagues who worked alongside him.

Kent County Council’s (KCC) corporate director for education, Matt Dunkley (pictured), has made the decision to step down from his role at the end of May. Mr Dunkley was in charge during the unprecedented challenges posed by the Coronavirus pandemic.

The public announcement was made last month at County Hall.

KCC’s integrated children services cabinet member, Cllr Sue Chandler (Con) led the plaudits at the county council’s cabinet meeting.

She said: “I wanted to say a personal thank you to Matt for his experience and calmness, over the last two and a half years

that I have had the portfolio.”

Mr Dunkley has been corporate education director for over four years and has played a key role in a number of education reforms, including a drive to place more special needs students in

mainstream primary and secondary schools.

He has battled through several crises in his tenure, including hundreds of Kent school closures in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with major transport issues for Kent children with special education needs travelling into school last February.

Cllr Chandler said: “It has been challenging for all services, but particularly children’s services.”

KCC’s leader Roger Gough (Con), who worked with Mr Dunkley for two years as the former cabinet member for education, said: “I express my big appreciation to Matt as well.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Shellina Prendergast (Con), who is KCC’s cabinet member for education, added: “I wish Matt all the best for his retirement.”

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Cash boost for food education

A FOOD education charity in Kent has been awarded £5,000 by a rural landowners' body to help get more people outdoors learning about seasonal produce and the environment.

Communigrow, based in Ditton, is among the groups to successfully apply for funding in the most recent round of awards by the CLA (Country Land and Business Association).

Communigrow educates people about freshly-grown food, the environment, conservation, and health and well-being. It runs hands-on field sessions for residents from Ditton, East Malling, West Malling, Larkfield, Snodland, Maidstone, Aylesford and the surrounding areas.

The CLA Charitable Trust (CLACT) aims to get more people outdoors learning about seasonal Children learning how to grow their own food at Communigrow, and right, Bridget Biddell, of the CLA produce and the environment.

Maria Paez, spokesman for “We intend to double the num- grant is funding this expansion skills for growing and harvesting Communigrow, said: “Our deci- ber of young people supported an- plan. This will allow us to offer fruit and vegetables, and learning sion to appoint a dedicated com- nually to 280 in the next two years. education, skills and new oppor- about biodiversity and nature. munity gardener and a produce “These include young refugees tunities for young people."

"The CLACT grant is particugardener to increase our capacity and asylum seekers, young carers Bridget Biddell, chairman of larly aimed at young people facwas made recently. The new team and those suffering marginalisa- CLACT, said: “Communigrow ing complex challenges and members will help us support an tion or complex disadvantages has ambitious and hugely worth- special needs, and the opportuniincreased number of young peo- through neglect or abuse. while plans to grow the number ties that Communigrow offers ple from across Kent.

“The CLA Charitable Trust of young people they train with will be life-changing.”

Buddy bench

A “BUDDY bench” has been installed in Maidstone as part of Mental Health Awareness week.

The seat was placed in a shopping centre as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the mentally ill.

If people sit on the bench it is seen as a signal they are in need of a friend or are willing to talk about their feelings.

Body found

A MAN has been found dead in Maidstone.

The man was discovered in an alleyway near the Premier Inn in London Road at around 9.30am on Monday, May 16.

The death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

Gym closed

A CHAIN of gyms has closed its Maidstone branch.

Tru Gym in the Broadway shopping centre announced it is to shut permanently.

The Chatham branch will stay open for business.

36

Health support for wardens CONCERNS have been raised over the welfare of “overwhelmed” community wardens as mental health support is offered by a local authority.

Vulnerable residents have benefited from the help of the Kent Community Warden Service (KCWS) for the last 20 years, which is run by Kent County Council (KCC).

Officers deliver food to households, provide essential medical prescriptions to the elderly and socialise with residents in isolated rural areas.

However, fears have been expressed over the health and wellbeing of wardens amid growing demands caused by the Covid pandemic over the last two years.

KCC shadow adult social care cabinet member, Cllr Jackie Meade (Lab), said during a public meeting involving a panel of councillors in County Hall that more aid should be given to wardens.

She said: “They seem to be finding that most of their time is being taken up supporting the elderly, who are terrified to come back into their own community again. How

are we supporting our community wardens?”

In response, KCC’s corporate director for transport Simon Jones said welfare packages were being offered to wardens.

He said: “We do a lot of work to make sure they have access to their own mental health support.

“Managers are trained to spot signs people are overwhelmed.”

Pledges were also made by County Hall in 2020 to invest an extra £1m into the service to help expand the staff number of the 70strong force.

Hunt for injured victim after assault POLICE are searching for a man who may be injured following a disturbance near Maidstone.

Police were called to a location in Cascade Close, Marden, at around 6.50pm on May 19 to reports a man had been assaulted.

It is believed the victim was involved in an altercation with two other people and may have sustained injuries after an assault.

The victim was reportedly chased in the direction of Admiral Way. A Kent Police spokesman said: “Despite extensive enquiries, including the use of a police drone to help search the local area, the welfare and whereabouts of the victim remain unclear.”

An 18-year-old man and a 16year-old boy have been arrested on suspicion of assault.

Anyone with information concerning the victim is urged to call 999. If you have any other details which may assist the investigation, contact Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/95758/22.

You can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form on their website.

News

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More help for abuse victims DOMESTIC abuse victims from Kent will receive more support over the next 12 months.

Cllr Anthony Hook

UCAS show

A KENT Higher Education UCAS Exhibition will take place at Kent Event Centre on June 9.

The event presents hundreds of universities, colleges, apprenticeship providers and employers.

The day will include personal statement workshops, student talks and Q&As and the chance to explore and meet representatives from universities, colleges and employers.

Bookings can be made online at www.ucas.com/events/kentucas-exhibition-2022-403871.

Road closed

WINDMILL Hill in Ulcombe will close for carriageway patching works.

The road will shut on June 16 for two days from Knowle Hill Lane to Lenham Road.

The alternative route is via Windmill Hill, Eastwood Road, The Street, Ulcombe Hill, Lenham Road and vice versa.

Crash drama

FIREFIGHTERS cut the roof from a car to free a trapped casualty after a crash in Chart Sutton.

Three fire engines attended the scene in Plough Wents Road at around 8pm on May 15.

A KFRS spokesman said: "Crews cut away at the roof to free one person, who was passed into the care of the ambulance service."

Fresh plans will see more than £3 million invested by Kent County Council (KCC) to enhance safe accommodation for vulnerable people from 2022 to 2023.

A government grant will be used to improve welfare support for domestic abuse victims, including refuges, home security measures and long-term housing.

Kent county councillors voted in favour of using the grant to expand services during a public meeting in County Hall, Maidstone.

Cllr Anthony Hook (Lib Dem) said: “Victims of domestic violence are incredibly vulnerable, both men and women and very often children. They deserve our support.”

Government chiefs say domestic abuse impacts more than 2.3 million people, who are aged between 16 and 74, in England and Wales over a 12-month period.

The Home Office estimates that between three to four million children are exposed to domestic abuse at some point in their lives.

In Kent, around 44% of domestic abuse incidents reported to the police in 2020 were recorded as having a child present; within hearing or involving a victim or suspect with children.

England’s councils, like KCC, have a legal duty to provide safe accommodation services.

A package of government fund-

ing has been allocated to KCC, the local social care authority, to the tune of £3.1m over the next year.

Under this, extra cash will allow for the development of more support within safe accommodation services.

KCC’s total spending budget is around £1.2 billion for April 2022 to April 2023.

Cllr Roger Gough (Con), who is KCC’s leader, said: “There are clear obligations put on us in relation to domestic abuse. We have already undertaken significant work and this is the next step.”

A progress report is expected to be published to KCC’s policy and resources committee over the next 12 months.

Golfers play to help sick children

A MAIDSTONE father of two is taking on the challenge of four rounds of golf in a single day to raise money for charity.

Stuart Wilson will be joined by three friends for the Longest Golf Day, which will take place at Weald of Kent Golf Course in Headcorn on June 24.

The golfers will set their alarms for a 4.30am start and are not due to finish until around 9pm.

Stuart and his partner Charlotte Ratcliffe live in Park Wood and benefited from Evelina London, which looks after sick children, when their daughter, Isla-Gray, was born with a serious heart condition.

Pothole funds cut A HIGHWAYS boss claims demand for pothole repairs in Kent has “virtually disappeared”, despite serious concerns raised by councillors.

Kent County Council’s (KCC) transport chief, Cllr David Brazier (Con), says roads are in “much better condition” than they have ever been during his 25 years on the council.

It comes as government funding totalling £27m has been cut from KCC’s highways budget from April 2022 to March 2025 – the equivalent of £9m a year – meaning less money will be available for pothole repairs.

Cllr Brazier expressed confidence it would not affect the service provided by KCC. He said: “In the late 1990s, there were many phone calls about potholes and damaged cars.

“Over the years, that kind of correspondence has virtually disappeared.”

Instead, pledges have been made to spend £21m in a “pothole blitz” over the next three years.

Cllr Mike Baldock described the £7m-a-year pothole repair package as “one of the most expensive sticking plasters” to resolve the issue.

River rescue

BRAVE members of the public saved a woman who was spotted in the River Medway on May 24.

Police were called at around 10.25am, after concerns about a person in distress in Maidstone.

Emergency services went to the towpath where bystanders had pulled a woman from the water.

She received treatment from paramedics and was taken to hospital for further medical attention.

A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "We were called to reports of a person in water near James Whatman Way, in Maidstone.

"On arrival, the casualty was already out of the water and in the care of SECAmb."

37

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Magnetic Shields Ltd are leading specialists in manufacturing bespoke MuMetal magnetic shielding & specialist alloys. We are entering an exciting new phase with our new Staplehurst factory due for completion Summer 2022 FULL & PART TIME, SOME IMMEDIATE START Toolmaker, CNC Machinist, Production Manager, Installation Technician, plus new roles in our Quality, Finance, Administration teams To apply please send your current CV to: lorraineh@magneticshields.co.uk or call Lorraine on 01580 891521 or see our website: www.magneticshields.co.uk

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Classified News

Hospital car park thefts

HOSPITAL chiefs in Maidstone are to step up security after the theft of catalytic converters.

The car park at Maidstone Hospital will see extra patrols, better lighting and CCTV coverage in order to deter car crime.

Valuable metals contained in the catalytic converters have made them attractive to criminals.

One reported victim said his Toyota was the target of a theft and may cost £1,500 to replace, as well as repairs to wiring connected to the car's alarm system.

A hospital statement said only a small number of vehicles were involved in the thefts.

It added: “We have increased security patrols in our car parks.

The trust is also looking to improve the car park’s lighting and over this summer, additional CCTV is being installed alongside a dedicated control room.”

Speed checks

A TOTAL of 16 drivers were caught speeding during a police crackdown in Dean Street and Lower Road in East Farleigh on May 13.

The speeding drivers were stopped and received fixed penalty notices.

Inspector Steve Kent said: “We completed these checks following complaints from residents that pedestrians and others using the local roads, were being endangered by speeding vehicles.

“Our officers will repeat this enforcement, and those who continue to put others at risk are likely to receive a fixed penalty notice or have to appear at court.”

Crime reports 44

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Assault charge after man ‘hit with bottle’

A MAIDSTONE man has been charged with assault after he allegedly struck a man with a glass bottle on a bridge.

Luke Morgan (29), of Hardy Street, is also accused of biting and kicking two police officers and shouting racial abuse once he arrived at the police station.

He was arrested after being spotted riding an e-scooter, charged and later remanded to a hearing at Maidstone Crown Court on June 15.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "At around 12.23am on May 17, Kent Police received a report that a man had been struck with a glass bottle on the Millennium Bridge.

"It was alleged the victim had been speaking to a woman he knew, when a man who was with her assaulted him.

"The victim suffered a cut to his head that required treatment at hospital and the incident was reported to the police."

Around half an hour later, patrols were called to an altercation in Knightrider Street. Following enquiries, a man who had left the scene on an e-scooter was detained in Lower Boxley Road.

During his arrest it is reported the suspect kicked and bit two

officers. The constables also seized a bottle and a sharpened keyring.

It is further alleged the man shouted racist abuse once he arrived at the police station.

Mr Morgan was later charged with wounding with intent and two counts of assaulting an emergency worker.

In addition, Mr Morgan faces a racially-aggravated public order offence, possessing an offensive weapon in a public place and the possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Appeal after stabbing report

DETECTIVES have issued an appeal into the alleged stabbing of a man at a children's play area in Maidstone on May 22.

Police and ambulance crews went to the scene at about 10pm after reports of an injured man in Bicknor Road, near Heather House in Park Wood.

The injured man was flown to a London hospital but was later discharged.

Kent Police arrested a 57-year-old local man on suspicion of assault and he was taken into custody.

Enquiries are underway into the circumstances and investigators are urging witnesses, or anyone with information, to call Kent Police

on 01622 604100, quoting reference 22-1446.

Witnesses can also call

Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form on their website.

Neighbourhood Watch

THE window of a Vauxhall Corsa parked in Hildenborough Crescent, Allington, was smashed.

A dog was stolen from a vehicle in Maidstone Road, Yalding.

Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police Several cars were scratched in Merton Road, Bearsted.

The bonnet was stolen from a Vauxhall A window of a house was smashed in Faversham Road, Lenham.

Youths vandalised a park and ride bus Combo van in Boxley Road, Boxley.

Somebody set fire to a church building shelter in Beaver Road, Allington. They A trolley full of shopping was stolen smashed windows, bent bars, burnt a after it was left unattended outside a in Week Street, Maidstone.

A Bobcat Skid Steer digger was stolen bin, sprayed paint over the car park and shop in London Road, Maidstone. damaged the solar panel over the gates.

Two men broke into a courtyard in East in Union Street, Maidstone.

A window of a house was smashed in A security camera was damaged at a Street, Hunton, and stole antique bandDover Street, Fant. house in Copsewood Way, Bearsted. stand parts.

An umbrella was stolen from the porch A business property was broken into in A shed was broken into at a house in London Road, Allington.

Vanity Lane, Coxheath, and tools were of a building in Postley Road, Maidstone.

A black Mercedes E350, registration stolen.

Eggs were thrown at a property in WN68***, was stolen from Tonbridge Several benches were stolen in Hockers Reeves Close, Staplehurst.

Road, Barming.

Lane, Detling.

downsmail.co.uk

r MOST of us strongly support the

NHS and value its importance. But many loyal and strong advocates, seeing its failings in so many ways, now call for a major national revolution.

I have become increasingly disillusioned and, in despair, gave up my roles for 25 years as a Maidstone area campaigner for improvements in our local services and as the dedicated health correspondent of the Downs Mail. At the end, I was battering against an unresponsive brick wall.

While a national service, we judge it mainly at a really local level. Our closest contacts are our GPs, local hospitals, ambulance service and care services available to those in greatest need (notably the elderly).

Most important are GPs and their surgeries. All the time they were operating efficiently and to our satisfaction, they covered many shortcomings in overall NHS services.

But recently they have become the heart of the problem in the Maidstone area, and for the rst time, patients are feeling isolated with their health seriously endangered. It could hardly be more worrying.

Maidstone and Weald MP Helen Grant is joining the local health battle yet again, now so many of her constituents’ complaints are about difficulties getting GP appointments.

She says the heart of the problem is a lack of GPs to satisfy demand, especially in rapidly-expanding Kent, which is on London’s doorstep and cannot compete with the capital’s higher salaries. The pressure this brings on Kent’s overworked GPs can be overbearing. She works with the primary care health minister and the chief officer of the budget-holding Kent NHS body to try to nd solutions.

I think in Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells we are now served by two good hospitals, but like most in England they just cannot meet demand.

Bed blockers

There is a huge backlog of patients awaiting elective operations and a shortage of available beds because of a serious shortfall of external care beds to which they should be transferred. The current major problem in social care is another story.

A further hospital issue is serious delays in transferring patients from ambulances to hospital care.

The concern for patients is obvious – not so readily understood is the serious impact on the ambulance service by removing vehicles and their specialist staff from other urgent calls.

I rue the day when Government

MailMarks DENNIS FOWLE President dennisfowle28@gmail.com

closed so many town ambulance stations and created district centres.

The old system may well have been more expensive, but it worked.

Since then, the service has a long and sad history of missing so many time targets set by Government. This is the very sharp end of medical emergencies.

In my long Maidstone journalistic career I have worked closely with the old primary care trusts, more recently with the GP-led West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and tried to work with the current Kent and Medway CCG. I had a lot of time for care trusts.

They were led by carefully-chosen volunteers supported by officers and their key role was to ensure the reliability of a town’s NHS services.

Governments are always changing these bodies and next came West Kent CCG. I was involved in the battle for Maidstone, Malling and The Weald to have its own exclusive CCG because I knew the importance of truly local representation and pressure.

We lost that battle and the CCG covered Maidstone, Malling, The Weald, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and part of Sevenoaks.

I was worried, but quickly reassured by the quality of local GPs appointed to the board and its excellent chairman in Dr Bob Bowes of Tunbridge Wells. It represented the whole of its area fairly and thoroughly. Local problems quickly came to light and were investigated. I thought senior officers were somewhat too powerful and inuential, but the GPs fought battles well on our behalf.

The CCG was the NHS budget-holder for the area, but as costs increased nationally, nancial challenges grew. I suspect that was the key reason Government made yet another change and amalgamated all Kent CCGs in to one – covering Kent and Medway.

I expressed my severe dismay at the time. Kent is a huge county. Ask Kent County Council about the problems of hands-on local administration in all Kent towns – and that has help from local authorities such as Maidstone.

I saw it doomed to failure, and already yet more Government changes are being made. The localities of Kent soon started making loud noises that Kent CCG was failing them and not paying proper attention to the quality

of local services. Current GP problems are linked to this.

Government said every local area should have its own NHS Integrated Care Partnership made up mainly from local health bodies and councils. This seemed vital to me for Maidstone and I kept pressing Kent for progress on one for West Kent.

Comment

Time now for NHS revolution Brick wall

Press communications with Kent were, in the main, poor and impersonal and I never received the answers we needed – and still need now.

As thoughts emerged of yet more proposed Government changes I stopped banging my head against this brick wall.

So now I look back on more than 25 years of campaigning and journalism to try to help ensure Maidstone and area has the best possible NHS services.

This all dates back to the years of the big battles and public meetings to try to save services in Maidstone Hospital, which the NHS wanted transferred to the new Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

With the help of Maidstone Council, KCC, local MPs and BMA branch we formed MASH (Maidstone Action for Services in Hospital), with Cllr Eric Hotson rst chairman and I followed on.

The battles were with Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (led initially by controversial chief executive Rose Gibb) and Government. We could not win the big battles, but with public anger and sympathy we gained valuable concessions. The role played

by MP Helen Grant was immense.

We felt the hospital trust was paying too much attention to the new hospital and administrative matters, and not enough to the care of our hospital patients.

This all came to a head when more than 20 patients died in Maidstone Hospital of the awful bacteria bug clostridium difficile. The trust was totally vilied in a major health report and Rose Gibb was out of the door in no time. The headline “Rose Goes” had been sitting on my desk for weeks.

Maidstone has seen the ups and downs of local NHS services and now we are in another severe and worsening situation.

Patience runs thin, the cost of the service escalates at an amazing rate for taxpayers and top people call for action. One suggestion is for a Royal Commission to investigate, taking it out of the political sphere. It is the best proposal I have heard so far.

45

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Comment

Price out undesirables I ENTIRELY agree with the sentiments of Gillian Barry (Downs Mail edition 319).

Maidstone is beginning to resemble an inner London borough with their undesirables being dumped on us.

It is cheaper for London boroughs to house their problem tenants out of London, as rents are cheaper.

Furthermore, they are apparently only obliged to pay the rents for these people for two years before they become a liability on local ratepayers.

The ambience of the town has changed so that it has become a place to avoid.

There is no likelihood that any major retailer will want to come into Maidstone town. They want to be on the outskirts, where parking is easier.

If inner Maidstone is to be turned into a residential area, then pull down all the former offices being converted to residential accommodation, and replace them with more upmarket housing which would be too expensive for London boroughs to consider.

David Hackett, via email

Re-open health centre I WAS interested in your article (Downs Mail edition 318) regarding the closure and possible re-opening of the Glebe Medical Centre in Harrietsham.

A relative was in a similar position in the north, as her practice didn’t re-open after the pandemic passed. A lot of old people in her village had to get to the nearest town, 12 miles away, to access the same services.

With energy prices about to soar again and the elderly squeezed from all sides, we as a community should help our neighbours out.

The sooner Harrietsham’s surgery can re-open, the better. The will is there locally but NHS red tape is preventing it.

N Kumar, via email

Correct poll result THE nal paragraph of your MBC election coverage in the Downs Mail states that my majority reduced by a factor of ve when compared to the result in 2018.

This error does a great disservice to the good sense of North Ward residents as, in fact, my majority increased from 447 in 2018 to a margin of 484 in 2022.

Please can you set the story straight and print the correct result: Tony Harwood (Lib Dem) 971 Conservative 487 Labour 292 Green 139 Cllr Tony Harwood, Maidstone Borough Council, North Ward

Gates a considered decision I AM writing regarding your front page lead on the gates being put in place to

46

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control access to the pedestrianised areas in the town centre.

There has been considerable concern from residents and businesses for some time about unauthorised vehicle access into Week Street, Bank Street, Gabriel’s Hill and other local roads, often associated with delivery drivers for fast food outlets.

Many have asked for these roads to be secured with strong vandal-proof barriers, given the heavy damage inicted on earlier imsier models.

This has been discussed at length by the Street Scene Group that brings together the borough and county officers and councillors covering the town centre.

I and other councillors, including Dave Naghi, Denise Joy and Jonathan Purle, agreed that the stronger barriers, although more expensive, would last considerably longer and would over time be cheaper.

Residents were updated on these plans and the feedback was very positive.

Councillors are aware of some of the antisocial behaviour issues facing Maidstone and are adopting practical measures to try to help. Hopefully, we will see more such co-operation on practical matters over the coming year.

Cllr Clive English, councillor for High Street ward

Park & Ride signs must go NOW that the three park and ride routes in Maidstone have been axed, I wish whoever is responsible for the signs on surrounding roads would remove them.

It is very misleading for motorists coming from out of town who may be following signs for the P&R buses that now don't exist.

Gill Barden, via email

Cut extras on energy bills WHEN I was a boy if the gas ran out, I was told to put a penny in the meter.

Back then, there were 240 to a pound.

If it was winter, we would have a coal re in the main room, the rest of the house was freezing. Now, there is not always a replace, and those with prepayment meters pay the most for the gas they use.

Then the penny was valuable, but affordable to most households because the gas was paid for and did not have added costs, such as VAT or a green energy levy.

Surely we should now be reaping the benets of that which has been sown on our behalf on land and sea. But our billions of investments have resulted in the huge increases in costs which mean many have to curtail the amount they use, some even not being able to afford any at all.

The US and the UK both refuse to extract their own energy deposits and import gas and oil at great cost, while the EU has become hostage to Putin for 80%

of its energy. He has one hand on a gas tap and the other on the nuclear button.

The bits and bobs added on to fuel bills are about 30%. Considering an average of £1,500 per year, there are 21,000,000 gas meters in the UK, 30% of that gure is £500 therefore the amount gathered in that is not for the price of energy is £10,500,000,000.

One would think that many in the House would demand its removal immediately, but they do not. Even a windfall tax would not provide as much as this.

Alan Wallace, via email

How is this democratic?

SHOULD we be concerned about how democracy is working in Maidstone?

Local elections delivered a hung council, but before they even met one member crossed the oor to ensure Conservatives have overall control.

This member started out as a Conservative crossed to the Lib Dems, then to the Independents and now back to the Conservatives. This member has a dismal record of attendance of some 17% and is reported to say he will not seek reelection as he lives out of the borough.

Surely, Maidstone deserves better than this.

I also note that the new Green Party member has become part of an independent group? How can a national party member claim to be independent?

Or why would you wish to, if you are so passionate about Green issues? Much better to be a visiting member and ensure your voice is heard?

We need a strong and proactive council to beat the challenges of today’s world.

Mike FitzGerald MBE, Chart Sutton

Keep trees, remove island THE Maidstone Cycle Campaign Forum (MCCF) is supporting the campaign to save the trees under threat in Deringwood Drive, Downswood, because we see this junction as another opportunity to provide better solutions, not just for vehicles but also for safer walking and cycling.

We had a big crowd supporting the retention of the trees, but many in the group were also very supportive of the plan to offer 20mph speed limits in these residential areas. The forum would also like to see speed cushions where people cross Deringwood Drive as this would help pedestrians and also make cycling safer and more comfortable.

The junction is just one of a number implicated by the Church Road development including the junction of Deringwood Drive and Willington Street.

Here the crossing into Mote Park needs to be re-designed with a toucan crossing without a central reservation to avoid putting people in the centre of the road.

Duncan Edwards, Maidstone Cycle Campaign Forum

Classified Opinion

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Working to improve education conditions

IT HAS been a few years since I dropped off one of my children at nursery, but earlier this month I got to relive those memories when I visited Lenham Nursery.

Stepping through the classroom door and seeing tiny chairs and tables, packed lunch boxes stacked up, and artwork strung up across the ceiling brought it all flooding back.

Lenham Nursery is a success story. It started on the same site as Lenham Primary School but it’s now looking to expand.

I’m delighted to support their bid for funding from Maidstone Borough Council, which would allow them to move to a site across the road and increase the number of children they look after Even with 30 hours free childcare for many 3-4 year olds (and 15 hours for some two-year-olds), childcare is one of the biggest costs for many parents. Those hours are often not enough, or your children are too young to benefit.

As Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury I’m working to reduce the cost of childcare for parents. For instance, I’m encouraging more people to use “Tax-Free Childcare”, which can save working parents up to £2,000 per year for each child. Parents with disabled children can save £4,000 a year.

As well as encouraging parents to sign up, I’m encouraging childcare providers to make sure they are registered and give

By Helen Whately MP for Faversham and Mid-Kent parents information about the scheme.

That’s because parents have told me they first found out about Tax-Free Childcare when their child’s holiday club or afterschool group promoted the scheme.

While I was in Lenham I also visited The Lenham School, and it was great to see the school doing so much better – but many of the buildings are in bad shape.

I’ll be supporting the school in its bid to secure funding to improve the facilities, and hope that it will be able to follow the success of two other local schools which recently won funding from the Government’s School Condition Improvement Fund.

While great teachers matter more than anything else – time for a huge thank you to all the teachers in Faversham and Mid Kent for what you do – our children also need to have decent buildings to learn in so they get the best possible start in life.

Time to focus on our future AS THE shadow of the pandemic hopefully wanes, councillors of all parties in Maidstone need to turn our eyes away from election results and a new constitution and focus on safeguarding the future of our borough.

If Maidstone wants to be a thriving town, shopping is no longer enough. Maidstone has to be somewhere people want to visit and that means events in the town centre.

The council needs to be more flexible and responsive to organisations that want to put on events in the town centre. Similarly, the council needs to be more proactive in seeking funding opportunities for cultural events and activities that will attract residents and visitors.

We also need to address some of the negatives affecting our community. Partly as a result of government policies (such as allowing the conversion of offices to flats without planning permission) which mean we have people living in some truly squalid accommodation.

Shamefully, some of the worst of this is owned by other local authorities who dump tenants

By Cllr Clive English Leader, Liberal Democrats at Maidstone Borough Council

with managing agents who care for little other than squeezing them for cash. The council needs to hold these organisations to account where we can, and also provide better alternatives.

Sadly, the government is making it even harder to secure affordable housing and running down the stock that exists by introducing the right to buy for housing associations.

Finally, we need to do more to deal with crime and antisocial behaviour, whether it’s Southern Water polluting our rivers, fly-tipping, vandalism, or knife crime. This would be easier if councillors of all parties could count on support from local MPs. I leave it to readers' judgement whether this is the case in Maidstone.

T

HERE is an unwritten rule in British journalism that a town mayor, regardless of how awful they are, is never given a hard time by the local Press. It appears another local news outlet has perhaps not grasped this convention.

Poor old Cllr Derek Mortimer, Maidstone’s latest brilliant, erudite, handsome and thoroughly likeable mayor, was photographed amid concrete and iron railings with what appeared to be a drainpipe appearing from the top of his head.

A

DATE in my diary will be the swanky Leeds Castle do to celebrate the 70th birthday of local councillor, Gary Cooke, this summer. A three-course meal and a dance band will blast out covers in the magnicent Fairfax reception barn until carriages at midnight.

O

N PAPER, the borough council result on May 5 in North ward would appear to have been a very narrow result. The Conservative challenger Scott Hahneeld seemed, inexplicably, to have run established Lib Dem Tony Harwood within 84 votes of defeat. That is until it transpired someone had lobbed 200 of Tony’s votes onto Scott’s pile, making the margin a more realistic and unassailable 484. As one observer remarked: “Tony’s like Des Walker – you’ll never beat him.”

E

AGLE-eyed viewers examining photos of the Prime Minister raising a glass during the ‘Partygate’ scandal, will have noticed a bottle of gin from a distillery in Chatham on the groaning table of booze.

As BBC journalist Tom Hourigan observed: “There is always a local angle.”

T

OM Tugendhat, the self-assured MP hotly being tipped to be the next PM, was fast out of the traps on the day Sue Gray’s long-awaited ‘Partygate’ report came out to get into the media spotlight and opine. He may have to try harder, he has dropped to two points to 10/1 in the bookies’ odds for the top job.

L

IB Dem Cllr David Naghi is impressed with the year’s programme for the Hazlitt Theatre but does have one complaint. He failed to buy a tub of ice cream because he was not allowed to use cash and his card was not accepted.

C

ONGRATULATIONS to the PR executive who managed to shoehorn ‘multi-agency approach’, ‘medicalised pathways’, ‘stakeholders’, ‘engagement’ and ‘healthcare professionals’ into the introduction of an otherwise excellent press release.

Chin chin!

Agree or disagree, have your say by writing to the editor – see our letters pages 47

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